For Chris Marshall, the journey to becoming the principal of Scottsburg Elementary School can only be explained by perseverance and divine providence.

“I felt like God had called me into education,” Marshall said. “God provided and kept me moving in the right direction.”

For 15 years, Marshall worked at Kimball International Inc., which sells and designs furnishings to workplace, hospitality, education, and healthcare industries. During that time, Marshall also coached the basketball teams of his three sons, who all attended Scott County School District 2. He spent 15 years coaching at Lexington Elementary School.

“I saw how the kids enjoyed being around me. Mr. Matthews encouraged me to become an educator,” Marshall said.

To become an educator and eventually a principal, Marshall and his family had to make a sacrifice of time and resources. Marshall had to head back to college; he already held a business degree from Indiana University Southeast.

“It was very demanding,” Marshall said. “The sacrifice my wife made — I couldn’t have done without her.”

But, Marshall felt a calling to education, so he persevered until he earned his teaching certificate and principal’s license. In 2000, Marshall became an elementary teacher in Jennings County before working in the classroom and in administration at Scott 2 for eight years. In 2009, he became the principal at Crothersville Elementary School until the principal’s position opened at SES this school year.

“It was hard for me to leave [Crothersville]. My wife and I felt like Scottsburg is where we’re meant to be. It’s where God’s called me to serve. I feel a peace about that,” said Marshall, who has been married to his wife, Pam, for 35 years. “I’ve always wanted to be the principal at Scottsburg Elementary School. I have a lot of close friends here.”

At SES, Marshall hopes to continue to provide a safe environment for the students and staff, hold high academic expectations for the children, implement technology that will engage students in academics, build a close, family relationship with the staff and the students, and foster community pride in the elementary school.

“The staff was so inviting, and they made me feel like I’m back at home,” Marshall said. “Community is important to me. […] I think people appreciate my leadership because I consider them part of my family.”

Marshall has five grandchildren, including a granddaughter, who was born less than two weeks ago.

“This is where I am going to retire from. I’m very happy to be back home,” Marshall said.